Among the world's most affected airlines with geared turbofan (GTF) engine recalls launched by Mexican low-cost carrier volaris, Pratt & Whitney, there are an increasing number of narrow Airbus bodies based on inspections and repairs.
Volaris averaged the grounding of 36 aircraft related to GTF engine issues throughout the second quarter, compared to 34 grounded aircraft reported at the beginning of the year.
The carrier has acquired the A320neo Family Jet, which averaged over 30 grounded throughout 2024.
Company executives expect that numbers will remain stable until the end of 2025.
Due to context, the carrier has earned grounded A320neos and A321neos, an average of over 30 throughout 2024.
Chief Financial Officer Jaime Pous pointed to the growth in Volaris capacity despite a lack of available aircraft.
Carrier capacity measured in available seat kilometres increased by approximately 9% year-on-year.
“We've been controlling the situation and managing it for the last 24 months (months),” says Pous. “It's like a new normal and we're ready to continue operating that way.”
He adds that the situation should “become broadly improved” beyond the end of the year.
Enrique Beltranena chief executive previously said Volaris plans to remove the engine at least by the end of 2027.
Volaris is expected to receive delivery of eight new Airbus narrow aircraft later that year.
The company's second quarter maintenance costs increased roughly three times to $33 million year-on-year, mainly due to increased wear due to Pratt & Whitney engine issues and increased aircraft use.
As of June 30th, Volaris operates 149 narrow-body Airbus Jets, including the previous generation A320.
In response to the durability issues of next-generation engines, P&W is deploying an aftermarket hot section upgrade of the PW1100G engine.
P&W also hopes to offer airlines an updated GTF advantage option.
